The Jefferson High School FFA Chapter will host a first-time 5K Color Run on April 25. Taking place along the cross country route at Sam Michael’s Park, the event will offer a different and creative fundraising event for the group.

According to chapter reporter Kristian Davis, the planners in the group selected this event because it it different. While there is a national color run, and other similar runs held elsewhere, the group hopes to play on the creativity to draw participants.

Davis explained that during the 3.2 miles (5K), there will be individuals with paint squirt bottles at each kilometer mark. Multiple colors of washable powdered paint will be sprayed as runners pass each mark.

Each participant registering for the event by April 4 will receive a t-shirt, a race bib, sport water bottle and a packet of color. Cost for the event is $30. While registration can be submitted up to the day of the event, later registrants may not receive a t-shirt as extra supplies will be limited.

The FFA Chapter is hosting the event to raise funds for Pets for Vets, a program dedicated to supportign veterans and providing a second chance for shelter pets by rescuing, training and pairing them with American Veterans who can benefit from a companion animal.

Davis explained that the students wish to “give back to those who have given so much to this country.”

Businesses have stepped forward to help sponsor the event, Davis said. Those sponsorships have helped fund the materials needed to put on the run. All other proceeds will go to the Pets for Vets group.

“We don’t have a specific dollar amount goal,” Davis said, “but we hope to have at least 50 people attend the race.”

The school FFA Chapter is more than 100 members strong and they participate in a variety of activities including local, state and national competitions.

“Leadership is very important,” Davis shared. “Personally, FFA has taught me so much, especially in the area of public speaking.”

She went on to say that while the picture brought to mind when mentioning FFA (Future Farmers of America) is farming and animals, there is so much more involved.

“Personally, I want to be a photographer and a journalist,” Davis said. “FFA has taught me so much to help we work toward that goal.”

Those interested in registering for the Color Run should contact the Jefferson High FFA Chapter via email at JeffersonHighFFA@gmail.com.

In addition to the Color Run fundraising event, the FFA chapter is currently heading up their annual “Flamingo Flocking.” This fundraiser, according to documentation from the FFA advisors at the school, “raises awareness of the organization and engages students and community members in an entertaining event.”

For a small fee, individuals may purchase a “flock” of pink flamingos which FFA members will transport to a yard of the purchaser’s choice and erect them. The birds will remain in the yard with signage indicating “You have been flocked,” for 24-hours, after which the members will return and gather them up. Those interested in securing a “flock” of flamingos may use the above email.

Davis shared that the funds raised from this particular fundraiser help FFA members go on trips such as for competitions or help those who may need financial assistance for such things as their FFA jackets.